Aging – Making the most of your ‘Golden Years’

Klamath Falls, Ore. – Americans are living longer than ever before – and ‘over 65′ is the fastest-growing part of the population.

Keith King retired from Pacific Power 22 years ago.

“How old are you, Keith?’  ’84’.  ‘How did you get so old?’  ‘Don’t die.”

When King was born in the 1930’s, People 65 and older made up about 5% of the population.

That has changed dramatically.

“The average county in Oregon has 15%, people 65 and over.”  Notes Klamath Basin Senior Center Director Marc Kane.  “In Klamath County, it’s 18 point something percent.”

U.S. Health and Human Services projections say that by 2030, 1 out of every 4 people will be 65 or older.

While everyone is different, there may be some common denominators in folks that just tend to age more gracefully than others.

Keith King volunteers, and he’s active in service work – and he gets up and gets out regularly.

“I just about eat whatever I want to eat, I can tell by the size of me.”  Says King.  “And I walk when I can for exercise.”

Experts say that ‘community connection’ is a key to staying happy and healthy.

“If you can maintain your self-esteem, stay connected, your health and attitude will be better.”  States Marc Kane.  “You will live longer.”

“A key part of getting old is staying active, and involved with the community.”  Adds Paula Quinn of Quail Park.

We asked King if his focus on physical, emotional, or spiritual elements plays the most important role.

“A combination of all three, I think.”  Said King.  “I’m not a real religious person, but I sure think there’s something up there that’s above us.  I do believe that.  And I talk to it.”

Not worrying may also be adding years to Keith’s life.

“He’s out in the community, has a strong support system.  He has a very positive view on life.”  Points out Dr. Jon McKellar of Klamath Family Practice Center.  “I can tell from what you’ve shown me that he has a sense of humor – that’s extremely important.”

“He’s living life – he’s living it to the fullest.”  Adds Quail Park’s Kevin Aruda.  “He doesn’t care.  He really doesn’t.  Life is life, and that’s what I like – because I want to get to that point.”

Having  positive attitude may be the closest thing there is to a ‘fountain of youth’.

“Aging is inevitable, but getting older is a choice.”  Says Marc Kane of the Senior Center.  “It really has nothing to do with age – it really is a state of mind.”

Keith King’s attitude of gratitude is infectious.

“it’s been a good life.”  Notes King.  “And I know one of these days I’ll go.  I’m just grateful how much I’ve had of it.  And I hate to read people in the paper the time they’re passing on, they’re my friends – but that’s just life, when you get old.”

 

 

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